<div class="ExternalClassF311D8DB26B041319FDCC2F4C340420B"><p>​As many families and staff continue recovery efforts in our neighborhoods, homes and community, we are also slowly but surely getting back on track with the business of teaching and learning across Katy ISD campuses. As you ​​know, our students lost two weeks of instructional time as a result of Tropical Storm Harvey. However, because the Texas Education Agency (TEA) will be waiving up to 10 instructional days, there will be no need to extend the 2017-18 instructional calendar, or to modify the Thanksgiving, Christmas/winter, and spring breaks.​</p><p>Our Curriculum Department has worked diligently over the past few weeks to realign and restructure the curriculum unit plans to ensure that all state standards will be taught this school year. As such, there will be no gaps in the taught and tested curriculum. </p><p>Also, to ensure that our students receive the full benefits of the Katy ISD learning experience, we have identified means to regain lost instructional time to deliver additional support to students. This includes providing enrichment resources for our families, supplementary study opportunities for Advanced Placement (AP) students, and extending four early release days to full days of instruction. </p><p><u>Enrichment Resources for Families:<br></u>Online instructional enrichment activities developed by our Curriculum Department are available for parents or guardians to work with their child(ren) at home. These enhanced learning activities are ungraded and optional, and are available on the <a href="/dept/ci/Pages/Enrichment.aspx">Katy ISD Curriculum & Instruction website​</a>. Each core subject area will be covered for the remainder of the school year. These subjects include language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. ​</p><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Support for Advanced Placement (AP) Students:<br></span>Additional study opportunities will also be offered to students preparing for the May 2018 AP exams. Review sessions and resources are currently being developed and will be shared with students, and published on the website later this Fall.</p><p><u>Extending Four Early Release Days:<br></u>The 2017-2018 instructional calendar included six "early release" days that are typically designated for professional development, teacher preparation, and parent conferences. Four of the previously designated early release days (Oct. 9, 20, Feb 16, April 13) will be extended to full instructional days. This is designed to allow students more time in the classroom, as well as to serve the needs of so many of our families who are displaced by Harvey and depending, now more than ever, on the daily routine of school to bring a sense of normalcy to their child(ren)'s lives. We understand that October 9 and 20 had been set aside for parent/teacher conferences at many campuses. However, in lieu of the in-person conferences, parents are encouraged to communicate with teachers by email and/or phone. Parents should also continue to monitor their student's progress on the <a href="/pages/home-access-center.aspx">Home Access Center</a>. Friday, December 15 and Thursday, May 24 will remain "early release" days since final exams are given on those dates.</p><p>Thank you for your understanding as we move forward with these post-Harvey initiatives to recapture lost instructional time and to provide additional support to our students and families. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact your school. </p></div>

<div class="ExternalClassF95BC14D33FC4436B88648BFAB6D2117"><p></p><p style="text-align:justify;">​After almost two weeks of being housed at Paetow High School, Bear Creek Elementary (BCE) students and staff will now be headed back to their home campus on Monday, September 25.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">The neighborhood lift pumps and a water treatment plant which were compromised by Harvey have now been repaired and the local service provider has lifted water restrictions to the area, making it safe for students to return to their home campus. School start time will revert back to normal hours of operations. Likewise, the transportation schedule will also return to its regular pick-up/drop-off times and locations. </p><p>Within the Katy ISD boundaries, the Bear Creek community was one of the hardest hit neighborhoods by Tropical Storm Harvey. "The reopening of the school is a sign of progress and recovery as we help students and families return to their normal routines and daily school activities," said district spokesperson Maria DiPetta.​</p></div>

<div class="ExternalClass63D527D04ADA4A0B8A61E4A982D684F7"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">Parents of kindergarten students in Katy ISD may refer their children for Challenge (Gifted & Talented) screening between September 18 and October 2.</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><span style="text-align:justify;">Parents will receive information in their child's take-home packet explaining how to refer them beginning the week of September 11.</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="text-decoration:underline;">The referral forms and parent checklist are due on October 3</span>. The State of Texas defines a gifted and talented student as a child or youth who performs or shows the potential for performing at a remarkably high level of accomplishment when compared to others of the same age, experience, or environment.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Kindergarten service will begin by March 1, 2018. The kindergarten program emphasizes the development of critical and creative thinking skills. Students attend for 60 minutes each week in the Challenge classroom. Students identified in the kindergarten level move into the elementary pullout program in first grade. If you have questions, please contact the counselor at the home campus or the campus Challenge teacher. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">​Parents of students who are referred and screened will receive placement notification during the last week of February. Informational presentations and FAQ d​ocuments (English and Spanish) will be available on the <a href="/dept/GT/Pages/Elementary%20GT%20Challenge%20Program.aspx">Katy ISD GT and Advanced Academics web page</a>.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p></div>

<div class="ExternalClass079105E0146C4A0A95C308F2FA402736"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">Katy ISD fifth graders who are not</span><strong style="text-align:justify;"> </strong><span style="text-align:justify;">currently identified as part of the Elementary Challenge Program have the opportunity to be screened for the Gifted and Talented Program, which begins during the student's sixth grade year.</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><span style="text-align:justify;">Secondary gifted program options are available in the following subjects:</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><span style="text-align:justify;">English, Reading, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies.</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><span style="text-align:justify;">Students can be screened in any or all of these content areas.</span><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">To refer a child for screening, a Secondary Parent Checklist must be completed and returned to the student's elementary campus by September 21, 2017. Checklists may be requested on campus or accessed via the <a href="/dept/GT/Pages/Elementary%20GT%20Challenge%20Program.aspx">Katy ISD GT and Advanced Academics web page</a>.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Testing will take place at your child's campus in October and November. Placement decisions will be notified via mail. </p><p>​</p></div>

<div class="ExternalClass1DBAE78160D84B2E93AD562C9579C31F"><p style="text-align:center;">​<img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/Ed_Found_Harvey_Cover_Photo.png" alt="Ed_Found_Harvey_Cover_Photo.png" style="margin:5px;width:603px;height:226px;vertical-align:middle;" />​<br><em style="font-family:calibri, sans-serif;font-size:12pt;"><br>​Fundraiser
for Katy ISD Families and Staff impacted by Hurricane Harvey</em><br></p><p style="text-align:center;"><em></em></p><p>In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, 15,007 students and 2,600 employees of Katy ISD are recovering from direct impact of the storm. Despite the destruction, the Katy community has proven to be "Katy Strong" in providing support to those in need. In keeping with that theme, the Katy ISD Education Foundation is launching an initiative that will provide support for Katy ISD families and staff adversely impacted by flooding in their homes as a result of Hurricane Harvey. The Foundation will collect donations from the community, while Katy ISD campuses will identify students and staff in need of support. This initiative was set in motion by the Foundation Board of Directors in response to numerous requests from our community.<br></p><p>"The Katy ISD Education Foundation has an unprecedented opportunity to bolster our community during this devastating time," says Tara Wilson, Katy ISD Education Foundation Board President. "With a tremendous amount of work ahead of us, this small but mighty initiative will provide the necessary support to Katy ISD staff and families that need to not only rebuild homes, but rebuild lives." Any donation amount is welcome and donors will receive a tax receipt when the gift is processed. </p><p>With sixteen campuses affected by floodwaters, including Creech Elementary re-locating students for the remainder of the year, Katy ISD faces a significant road to recovery. "While the district is in a strong position to support facility recovery, and will do so, we are grateful for our community's support for the thousands of Katy ISD staff members and their families whose lives have been profoundly impacted by Hurricane Harvey," says Dr. Lance Hindt, Katy ISD Superintendent. "We have already seen incredible acts of compassion all over Katy from hundreds of volunteers serving four thousand evacuees in three Katy ISD schools used as shelters to our staff working tirelessly to return facilities to working order."</p><p>The Education Foundation's mission is to provide extraordinary classroom experiences to students and teachers in our district. In this case, the extraordinary will, in fact, be the ordinary, everyday items that will return home-lives to normalcy. To give, visit <a href="http://tinyurl.com/pledgecentskatyisdfamilies">http://tinyurl.com/pledgecentskatyisdfamilies</a></p></div>

<div class="ExternalClass6B7A9D208BD34076AA5454F07228679E"><p>​Due to Tropical Storm Harvey's impact on our district and community, the Fall 2017 Katy ISD Community Education course schedule has been modified. Most courses, with the exception of the "Becoming a Real Estate Entrepreneur" class and "Basics of Ballroom Dancing: Beginner", have been postponed to the week of September 18. As you may be aware, those courses were originally scheduled to begin next week. </p><p>An updated course catalog which includes information about modified course schedules and cancelled courses can be found on the Katy ISD website. Please visit the <a href="/dept/ce/Pages/default.aspx">Katy ISD Community Education webpage</a> for the most recent information, or call 281-396-6365. </p><p>Thank you for your patience and understanding as Katy ISD continues recovery efforts throughout our school community.</p><p>Katy ISD</p></div>

Bear Creek Elementary Students and Staff will be Relocated to Paetow High

<div class="ExternalClassB0A118B488644D97AE1AEAD2FC0B51D1"><p>Neighborhoods surrounding Bear Creek Elementary suffered severe flooding last week. While the school was left intact, the local service provider has placed restrictions on water usage, as nearby lift pumps, along with the waste water treatment plant were compromised by the storm.<br></p><p>These restrictions will limit the school's access to water and waste treatment. As such, Bear Creek Elementary students and staff will be transferred to Paetow High School, located at 23111 Stockdick School Rd.,<em> </em>Katy, TX, for the reopening of schools on September 11. Paetow is Katy ISD's newest high school which opened its doors this fall to two grade levels - freshman and sophomore classes. The elementary students will be housed in the east tower of the campus, currently unoccupied by secondary students.</p><p>Transportation for all Bear Creek Elementary zoned students will be provided, should they need it. Information regarding routes, pick up and drop off times/locations will be emailed to parents before Monday. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">In the meantime, operations crews have completed their mechanical and electrical assessments, which met all standards. Since there was no flood water intrusion within the building, Bear Creek students and staff will be returning to a safe and secure learning environment once restrictions are removed by the local service provider.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">"Students and staff are our highest priority during this recovery process," said Superintendent Lance Hindt. "Though the relocation for Bear Creek students is temporary, multiple Katy ISD departments are working vigorously to make this a smooth transition for everyone, both now and when students and staff are able to return to their school." </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Katy ISD closed the district on August 25 in anticipation of Hurricane Harvey. Following the storm, the District announced that 16 campuses had been impacted by flooding in surrounding neighborhoods. One campus, Creech Elementary took on several feet of water and arrangements have since been made for students and staff to be relocated to the University of Houston Cinco Ranch campus while repairs are being made at the school. Bear Creek Elementary will be the second school to relocate as a result of Tropical Storm Harvey. The remaining 14 schools have cleared building assessments and will reopen in their home locations this Monday.</p><p>Schools reopen across Katy ISD on September 11.</p></div>

<div class="ExternalClassAAC5B73A786E4F72A32C46F2649BB8EB"><p>​<span style="text-align:justify;">Beck Junior High was one of a number of Katy ISD campuses impacted by Tropical Storm Harvey. Damages to the building included water intrusion from the roof, skylights and at a site located on the campus where a building addition is being constructed. Immediately following the storm, it was unclear as to whether the school would be ready for the return of students on September 11. Operations crews have now completed a building evaluation and repairs, while external environmental services have finished testing for air quality and mold. Both entities reported yesterday, that Beck Junior High has been cleared for students and staff to safely re-enter the campus and resume regular school activities on Monday, September 11.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;">Katy ISD closed the district on August 25 in anticipation of Hurricane Harvey. Following the storm, the District announced that 16 campuses had been impacted by flooding in surrounding neighborhoods. One campus, Creech Elementary took on several feet of water and arrangements have since been made for students and staff to be relocated to the University of Houston Cinco Ranch campus while repairs are being made at the school. The remaining 15 schools are anticipated to reopen on Monday, September 11.</p></div>

Katy ISD Relocates Campus Flooded by Harvey to University of Houston Property

<div class="ExternalClass975BEFC66580440AAFE28C78915763E1"><p style="text-align:justify;">After having suffered severe damage from flooding resulting from Tropical Storm Harvey, Creech Elementary will have a new temporary home on September 11. Katy ISD and the University of Houston have worked out an agreement for the elementary school to utilize their Cinco Ranch satellite campus until restorations have been completed at Creech.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">The elementary school's students and staff will be housed in existing classrooms at the university's campus, while portable buildings and playground equipment will be added to extend the teaching and learning spaces available to students and staff. The District will have the option to make minor facility modifications as needed. The University of Houston campus, which is located at 4242 S. Mason Road, Katy, TX is currently unoccupied.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Katy ISD closed the district on August 25 in anticipation of Tropical Storm Harvey. Following the storm, the District announced that Creech Elementary would be closed for the foreseeable future due to damage brought on by that catastrophic weather event. With the campus having taken on several feet of flood water, the conditions near and around the school have prevented Katy ISD operations crews from conducting a full assessment of the building. Katy ISD anticipates that an extended amount of time will be required to fully evaluate campus building structures, conduct air and mold tests, and make restoration repairs. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">"We're greatly appreciative of the University of Houston's ongoing support of Katy ISD and the community," said Superintendent Hindt. "We have been working on a tremendously short timeline over the past week, and the university has been extremely flexible in helping us to meet the needs of our students and families."</p><p style="text-align:justify;">For a number of years, Katy ISD and the University of Houston have partnered to provide programs and services for Katy ISD students, staff and the community including planning for the region's educational and workforce needs.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Schools reopen across Katy ISD on Monday, September 11.</p></div>

<div class="ExternalClass25ED211DF5E94DB995BDB48C50C8CA4C"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">Sixteen Katy ISD schools were impacted by flooding that took place last week in the surrounding neighborhoods.</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><span style="text-align:justify;">Two district campuses, Creech Elementary and Beck Junior High, saw more extensive damage than other campuses. While Bear Creek Elementary sustained minor water intrusion.</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><span style="text-align:justify;">The damages and repairs include:</span><br></p><ul><li><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Creech Elementary</span>: Operations crews have begun the building assessment, which includes air quality/mold testing and a number of other safety reviews. Conditions near and around the campus have prevented our crews from fully assessing the building. Katy ISD is working on a plan to relocate students and staff and will notify families of the alternate campus site by the end of the day on Wednesday, September 6.</li><li><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Beck Junior High</span>: The campus is being assessed by operations crews and is being evaluated and remediated for damage due to water intrusion through the building's roof, skylights and a construction site within the building. Mechanical and electrical systems, as well as air quality and mold testing, are being conducted throughout the building. These tests will determine if the school is ready to reopen on Monday, September 11.</li><li><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Bear Creek Elementary</span>: The campus sustained minor water intrusion within the building. Operations crews are testing mechanical and electrical systems to ensure a safe return for students and staff. Evaluation and repairs to the damaged structure are expected to be completed by the end of the week, in time for the return of students on Monday, September 11.</li></ul><p>The safety of our students and staff returning to their campus is our number one priority. Your patience and understanding is greatly appreciated. Parents and staff will be updated as conditions evolve and new information is received.</p></div>

<div class="ExternalClassAC19A255C2B0404BB1CA15A79A63B2D4"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">With a unanimous vote of 7-0, the Katy ISD Board of Trustees called a November 2017 bond election for the 239-project bond package presented by a community-led committee this past July.</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><span style="text-align:justify;">The total bond package is $609.2 MM and would have no impact on the school tax rate.</span><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">The Community Bond Advisory Committee's (CBAC) package focuses on meeting existing and near-term needs as the District continues to grow by 2,800 student annually and older campuses show signs of aging. It's a growth bond that directly affects students, with 74% of the bond allocated for new schools. The improvements proposed for existing campuses will ensure that classrooms adequately support the curriculum and meet legislative requirements across the district.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">The bond package is comprised of six new schools, a comprehensive renovation of Fielder Elementary, repairs and replacements for components like school kitchens, roofs, floors and intercoms at 61 campuses and facilities, facility expansions at two schools, and safety and security upgrades at 40 campuses. Students across the entire district will likewise benefit from technology network improvements. The CBAC also included funds for new buses as well as fuel tanks and portable buildings to replace existing aging ones. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">The bond touches every quadrant of Katy ISD, from the far northeast to the lower southwest. The last day to register to vote is October 10 and Election Day is November 7. <a href="/sites/bonds/pages/default.aspx">Click here for more information on the bond package.</a></p></div>

<div class="ExternalClass1F51D4C889B14495ABC62A125498A138"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">After nearly two years of construction, Katy ISD welcomed parents, students, staff and community members to Mike Johnston Field at Legacy Stadium.</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><span style="text-align:justify;">Special performances by all eight high school bands and choir directors resonated across the facility where countless attendees came to take part in a historical moment, not just for Katy ISD, but for the entire Katy community.</span><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">Legacy Stadium was approved by voters as part of the 2014 bond to provide Katy ISD students and its community with a state of the art multipurpose second stadium. The stadium will benefit the 77,000+ students currently enrolled in the District, as well as their families and other residents. It was part of a zero tax rate increase bond and will serve as an athletic and fine arts venue for Katy ISD schools.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">It is anticipated that events such as football, soccer, marching band contests, concerts, youth football games, lacrosse, rugby, college football summer camps, parent group meetings, banquets, movie nights, and other community celebrations will take place at the stadium. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">The name, Legacy Stadium, was announced by a community led naming committee who selected the name to pay homage to the District's history of excellence and tradition. </p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/lt6o3uun714uj78/IMG_6730.jpg?dl=0">Photos of Mike Johnston Field and Legacy Stadium</a></p></div>

<div class="ExternalClassF940409149BE44B1A9639394BE8BA730"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">Morton Ranch High School 11</span><sup style="text-align:justify;">th</sup><span style="text-align:justify;"> grader Kyle Triplett and ninth-grader Michael Hurley received gold medals in the </span><em style="text-align:justify;">Students Taking Action with Recognition</em><span style="text-align:justify;"> (STAR) Competition at the 2017 National Leadership Conference in Nashville, TN.</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><span style="text-align:justify;">More than 7,500 Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) members, advisers and guests from across the country, including the MRHS FCCLA organization, benefited from leadership and program training, national speakers and the possibility to explore several colleges and careers.</span><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">FCCLA offers over 30 STAR events during the conference, which include early childhood education, job interviewing and sports nutrition, among others. This year, Kyle and Michael were among over 4,200 STAR event participants. They competed in the <em>Promote and Publicize</em> category and their project focused on showcasing all of the benefits FCCLA offers in our community such as community service activities that the Chapter's 124 members participated in. Chapter members mentored elementary reading students, promoted breast cancer awareness, organized food drives, purchased Christmas gifts for needy children, encouraged physical activity among the family and participated in programs to promote cultural awareness and acceptance. </p><p style="text-align:left;">Congratulations to both Kyle and Michael who represented their school and the District well during this year's leadership conference!</p><p style="text-align:center;"><img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/072617_MRHS_FCCLA%20Pic%20-%20smaller.jpg" alt="072617_MRHS_FCCLA Pic - smaller.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /> </p><p style="text-align:center;"><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Picture attribution:</strong></span></p><p style="text-align:center;">(Left): Kyle Triplett</p><p style="text-align:center;">(Right): Michael Hurley</p><p style="text-align:center;"><br></p><p style="text-align:center;"> <img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/072617_MRHS_FCCLA%20Pic%202%20-%20smaller.jpg" alt="072617_MRHS_FCCLA Pic 2 - smaller.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /></p><p style="text-align:center;">(Left): Michael Hurley</p><p style="text-align:center;">(Right): Kyle Triplett</p><p> </p><p style="text-align:center;"><img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/072617_MRHS_FCCLA%20Pic%203%20-%20smaller.jpg" alt="072617_MRHS_FCCLA Pic 3 - smaller.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p><p style="text-align:center;">(Left): Michael Hurley</p><p style="text-align:center;">(Right): Kyle Triplett</p></div>

<div class="ExternalClass02DD6071A5D64A448DA9741D65CEEAA3"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">Katy ISD is pleased to announce </span><strong style="text-align:justify;">Rahsan Smith</strong><span style="text-align:justify;"> as the new principal for McRoberts Elementary.</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">Mr. Smith has worked in the field of education for 17 years. He began his career with Houston ISD in 2001 as an elementary teacher, serving as a literary specialist and intermediate classroom teacher at JFK Elementary. He also worked with Pre-K students at Gabriela Mistral early Childhood Center and as a student behavior specialist at Fondren Middle School.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">He came to Katy in 2012 and served as an assistant principal at Mayde Creek Junior High, a principal for Katy Summer Academic Term in 2016 and 2017 and before moving to McRoberts Elementary, he was an assistant principal at Seven Lakes High School.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">"To become the principal of McRoberts Elementary is truly an honor," says Principal Smith. "It is a reflection of the Katy community. A community that is built on integrity, honor, kindness, relationships and success. As the new principal of McRoberts Elementary, one of my main goals will be to establish a rapport with each and every one of my students and help them to reach their highest potential. Go Dolphins!"</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Congratulations!</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/071117_Rahsan%20Smith%20-%20smaller.jpg" alt="071117_Rahsan Smith - smaller.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p></div>

<div class="ExternalClass2EBAA2BE345B42F1AF7EDFFDD8F2BB47"><p>​<span style="text-align:justify;">Katy ISD is pleased to welcome </span><strong style="text-align:justify;">Dr. Doreen Martinez</strong><span style="text-align:justify;"> as the new principal for Memorial Parkway Elementary.</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span></p><p style="text-align:justify;">Dr. Martinez has worked in the field of education for 28 years. She began her educational career in 1989 as a teacher in Pasadena ISD. She has also work in Angleton ISD, Clear Creek ISD and as a grant/technology coordinator in Royal ISD.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">She came to Katy ISD in 2001, where she served as an instructional technology facilitator, technology training supervisor, Parent & Patron Center Coordinator and then as an assistant principal at Morton Ranch Junior High. In 2015, Dr. Martinez returned to Angleton ISD as Principal of Angleton Junior High. However, it's the District's pleasure to have her back home at Katy ISD where she will lead the Memorial Parkway Elementary family.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">"Coming back to Katy ISD is such a proud honor and a dream come true," says Principal Martinez. "My goal is to work to build trust, establish relationships and create a positive environment where our Panthers can excel and achieve their dreams. Working together as a team we will be 'the best school in the land!'"</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Congratulations!​</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/071117_Doreen%20Martinez%20-%20smaller.jpg" alt="071117_Doreen Martinez - smaller.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p></div>

<div class="ExternalClass543A4EAD4D7F41EE9784F72BFE136307"><div class="ExternalClassECD570E404FD486085BB3622C9C5F5AC" style="text-align:left;"><p><span>During the monthly Katy ISD Board of Trustees Work Study meeting the 2017 Community Bond Advisory Committee (CBAC) Chairman presented the Committee's $609.2 MM recommended bond package which addresses rapid growth and the near-term needs of the district.</span><br></p><p>Since early April, Committee members have attended numerous meetings as well as received and assessed extensive and detailed information in order to develop a bond package. Members agreed on a final bond package which includes funds for six new schools, renovations and expansions at existing facilities, enhanced student technology, safety and security upgrades among other items. The Committee's bond package also ensures a zero tax rate increase. </p><p>Student enrollment has grown by approximately 2,800 students per year in Katy ISD. The district currently has an enrollment of more than 76,000 students. According to the district's demographer, Population and Survey Analysts (PASA), by 2023 nearly 90,000 students will attend Katy ISD schools and over 98,000 students will call the district their home by 2026. </p><p>For more information on the 2017 recommended bond package please visit:</p><p> <a href="http://tinyurl.com/katyisdbondpackage"><strong>http://tinyurl.com/katyisdbondpackage</strong></a></p><p><br> </p></div></div>

<div class="ExternalClass178C2EC09E2C4AA9930111BD6CE2DE3C"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">Katy ISD's 2017 District-wide Elementary Teacher of the Year </span><strong style="text-align:justify;">Kristal Parrish </strong><span style="text-align:justify;">and Secondary Teacher of the Year </span><strong style="text-align:justify;">Phuong Nguyen</strong><span style="text-align:justify;"> have been selected as finalists in the Region 4 Teacher of the Year program.</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">Ms. Parrish is a fifth grade teacher at WoodCreek Elementary where she teaches reading, writing and social studies. Since 2013, Ms. Parrish has also been the fifth grade team Curriculum and Instruction Leader. She's a dedicated teacher that inspires her students to make an impact in the world. She does this by teaching them to be critical readers and writers, and deep thinkers who are compassionate. Her philosophy surrounds the ideal that "there is no program, no app, no curriculum that can replace the tremendous power and essence of an effective and passionate teacher in the life of a student."</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Ms. Nguyen teaches 10<sup>th </sup>- 12<sup>th</sup> grade students in the area of Principles of Health Science, Health Science Technology and Clinical Rotations at Taylor High School. As a teacher, she creates an environment where curiosity is cultivated, learning is collaborative and students develop skills to be successful in every endeavor. Her philosophy is one of adaptability and emphasis on the importance of a moral compass. Ms. Nguyen also initiated the Katy Students Run program at her school to create another platform in order for her to mentor and teach the necessary skills to be successful in life.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">The Region 4 Teachers of the Year event is part of the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA) Texas Teacher of the Year program and is the initial step into the National Teacher of the Year selection process.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Best of luck to both Katy ISD teachers!</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/Kristal%20Parrish.jpg" alt="Kristal Parrish.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Kristal Parrish - Fifth grade teacher at WoodCreek Elementary</p><p style="text-align:justify;"> <img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/Phuong%20Nguyen.jpg" alt="Phuong Nguyen.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">Phuong Nguyen - 10-12th grade teacher at Taylor High School</p></div>

<div class="ExternalClassF83B3C315623430AA20090E6F578DFC0"><p>​<span style="text-align:justify;">Four Katy ISD students recently traveled to Carnegie Hall in New York City to be honored with the Gold Key Metals from the National Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><span style="text-align:justify;">Akhil Thadani from Seven Lakes High School, Connie Lau, Asma Mashal and Fatemeh Ebrahimi from Taylor High School were among 25 of the best artists and writers who were recognized.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;">More than 330,000 entries were submitted and in total, 59 National Scholastic Art & Writing Awards were received by students from Katy ISD and other neighboring school districts as well as private schools in Harris County. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">"It's amazing what happens when you mix extraordinary talent with the resources, leadership and support our district offers," stated Lisa Matschek, art teacher for Seven Lakes High School. "To share in the experience of recognizing students at a national level, in the top one percent, was really special. Katy ISD was well represented with five gold national winners in New York City." </p><p style="text-align:justify;">"It truly was a life changing experience for our students," adds Ashley Niemi, art teacher for Taylor High School. "At the ceremony the key note speaker talked about how his scholastic award was the kick start to him believing he could live a creative life! It was truly an inspirational recognition for us all!"</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Scholastic Art & Writing Awards recognizes the vision, ingenuity and talent of students and provides opportunities for creative teens to be celebrated. Harris County Department of Education serves as the regional sponsor of this prestigious national program and hosts yearly judging and awards ceremonies for thousands of writing and art entries. For more information visit <a href="http://www.hcde-texas.org/scholastic">www.hcde-texas.org/scholastic</a> .</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/071217_Scholastic%20Art%20Writing%20Medals%201%20-%20smaller.jpg" alt="071217_Scholastic Art Writing Medals 1 - smaller.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /> <img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/071217_Scholastic%20Art%20Writing%20Medals%202%20-%20smaller.jpg" alt="071217_Scholastic Art Writing Medals 2 - smaller.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p></div>

<div class="ExternalClass1ADF5EBC99BC4C36808CDF38A6864E2C"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">Sam Houston State University student Liza Viera surprises Katy ISD police officers with Saint Michael's medallions, as part of her support campaign, "Back the Blue – Liza's Mission."</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">The campaign started after last year's deadly shooting of four Dallas police officers. With encouragement from her father, who is also a law enforcement officer, Liza has presented over 22,700 Saint Michael's medallions to police officers across Texas. Whether it's in the form of a prayer card, medal token or car visor clip with the image of St. Michael, many law enforcement officers have expressed a sense of security and peace in carrying the image of the saint with them. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Katy ISD Chief Robert Jinks and Deputy Chief Robert Meier recently surprised Liza with two challenge coins from the Katy ISD Police Department and the Katy ISD Police Officers Association, a department patch and a teddy cop for her efforts in bringing awareness and support to police officers. </p><p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/071117_Saint%20Michael%20Medallions%202%20-%20smaller.jpg" alt="071117_Saint Michael Medallions 2 - smaller.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /> <img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/071117_Saint%20Michael%20Medallions%203%20-%20smaller.jpg" alt="071117_Saint Michael Medallions 3 - smaller.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /></p><p style="text-align:justify;"> <img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/071117_Saint%20Michael%20Medallions%204%20-%20smaller.jpg" alt="071117_Saint Michael Medallions 4 - smaller.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><br></p></div>

<div class="ExternalClass1E4FCE20BCF949CDB22CDE584140DB06"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">Katy ISD Seven Lakes Junior High sixth grader Rowan Dumond, recently competed at the 2017 U.S. Men's Junior Olympic National Championships in Kissimmee, FL. Over 800 of the country's top male gymnasts competed in the regional team, all-around and individual apparatus events.</span><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">After two days of competition, Rowan tied for first place earning ​​the title of National Champion for Floor in his division. He had a career high score of 13.45 on Floor during the preliminary competition. Rowan is an honors student at Seven Lakes Junior High, and when he's not training at the gym, he enjoys playing percussion with the SLJH Honors Band, designing with Legos and solving Rubix cube puzzles.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/070517_Rowan%20Dumond2%20-%20smaller.jpg" alt="070517_Rowan Dumond2 - smaller.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/070517_Rowan%20Dumond1%20-%20smaller.jpg" alt="070517_Rowan Dumond1 - smaller.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/070517_Rowan%20Dumond3%20-%20smaller.jpg" alt="070517_Rowan Dumond3 - smaller.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/070517_Rowan%20Dumond4n%20-%20smaller.jpg" alt="070517_Rowan Dumond4n - smaller.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p></div>

<div class="ExternalClass7B1868E248C048FF86C0322352892077"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">Elizabeth Moreland-Mason, Instructional Officer for Special Education Curriculum and Instruction K-12 for Katy ISD, has been selected as a 2017 Texas A&M University Dean's Roundtable honoree.</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><span style="text-align:justify;">The College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) recently honored Moreland-Mason among 28 other transformational leaders from across the state for being excellent role models, mentors and servant leaders in their communities.</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">Established by Dr. Jane Stallings in 1991, the Dean's Roundtable has recognized more than 550 individuals who positively impact the lives of people throughout Texas and beyond. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Moreland-Mason's goal is to ensure that Katy ISD campuses and teachers have the support they need to implement high quality programming in their classrooms for special education students. She supervises programs for students in LIFE Skills, Resource and In-Class Support. As part of her 33-year career, she has worked collaboratively in many different settings, from special opportunity support, autism programs as well as in a general classroom environment. Teaching children with special needs has always been her passion. She is the author of two books and has conducted staff development and training related to goal writing, state assessment for students with intellectual disabilities and programming for students with multiple disabilities. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">​<img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/062917_Moreland%20Mason%20-%20smaller.jpg" alt="062917_Moreland Mason - smaller.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p></div>

<div class="ExternalClass1CC160FF2311416D828115F3EABF32DC"><p>During the Regular Board of Trustees meeting, Katy ISD Superintendent Dr. Lance Hindt, announced Martha Pulido as the new principal for Sundown Elementary School. Mrs. Pulido will be replacing Steve Pustejovsky, who will be retiring.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Mrs. Pulido has worked in the field of education for 21 years. She began her educational career in 1996 as a teacher in Houston ISD. In 1999, Mrs. Pulido joined Katy ISD where she served at Sundown Elementary from 1999-2012 as a teacher, instructional coach and instructional coordinator. She is currently an Assistant Principal at Morton Ranch High School, a position she has held since 2012. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Mrs. Pulido holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from St. Thomas University and a Master of Education in Administration from Lamar University.</p><p>We hope you will join us in giving Mrs. Pulido a warm welcome to the Sundown Elementary family, and wish her the best in her new position!</p><p><img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/062717_Martha%20Pulido%20-%20cropped.jpg" alt="062717_Martha Pulido - cropped.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p><p><br></p><p></p></div>

<div class="ExternalClassCCE054232FE647FE9AD7E05AC4F0DB63"><p>During the Regular Board of Trustees meeting, Katy ISD Superintendent Dr. Lance Hindt, announced Felicia Sheedy as the new principal for Mayde Creek Elementary School. Mrs. Sheedy will be replacing Karen Raymond, who will be retiring at the end of this summer.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Mrs. Sheedy has worked in the field of education for 22 years. She began her educational career in 1995 as a teacher in Pasadena ISD. In 2000, Mrs. Sheedy's career led her to Spring Branch ISD, where she served as an instructional specialist and then an assistant principal from 2001 to 2006. On July 2006, she joined Katy ISD and has since served as Assistant Principal of WoodCreek Elementary. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Mrs. Sheedy holds a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Texas A&M University, as well as a Master of Education in Education Management from the University of Houston-Clear Lake.</p><p>We hope you will join us in giving Mrs. Sheedy a warm welcome to the Mayde Creek Elementary family, and wish her the best in her new position!</p><p><img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/062717_Felicia%20Sheedy%20-%20cropped%20smaller.jpg" alt="062717_Felicia Sheedy - cropped smaller.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p><p><br></p><p></p></div>

Seven Lakes Junior High Choir to Perform at Texas Music Educators Association Convention

<div class="ExternalClass9A155AA13B4A4CC4B4AEBC07FEDA0E53"><p>​<span style="text-align:justify;">The Seven Lakes Junior High Varsity Treble Choir has been selected to perform at the 2018 Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) Convention in San Antonio next February! This is the highest honor a choir in the state of Texas can achieve. </span></p><p style="text-align:justify;">The SLJH Choir was chosen from over 180 schools that submitted recordings to this prestigious competition, and the only one to represent the Greater Houston Area. It has been 15 years since a junior high choir in Katy ISD was selected to perform at a TMEA Convention. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Katy ISD is very proud of these students as well as their Choir Director Mrs. Kristin Likos and Choir Assistants Mr. David Lee and Mrs. Jennifer Hart for their hard work and excellent tutelage towards these performers.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">​<img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/061517_Varsity%20Treble%202016.jpg" alt="061517_Varsity Treble 2016.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/061517_Varsity%20Treble%202017.jpg" alt="061517_Varsity Treble 2017.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p></div>

Katy ISD Schmalz Elementary Selected to Participate in Raising Family Partnership Program

<div class="ExternalClass5A088E62D31B4693B45C21B0BC8BAB4F"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">Schmalz Elementary was recently selected to participate in the 2017 Raising Family Partnerships Fellowship. The school is one of 20 from across the state selected to redesign and transform their family engagement plan based on best practices, personal experiences and lessons learned from other participants. </span><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">The year-long fellowship kicks off in the summer of 2017 with a design camp where school leaders will turn research into practice and engagement opportunities for their campuses during the upcoming school year. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Raising Your Hand Texas Leadership Program consists of an elite network of 1,000 Texas school leaders who contribute to creating a high-quality public school system that supports the success of all students. Following the design camp, participants will remain connected, working together to implement and improve their plans and to collaborate and provide feedback on ways to strengthen partnerships on their campuses.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Congratulations to the staff at Schmalz Elementary School.</p></div>

<div class="ExternalClass99D66719134A4375B7233DC02DBC05EC"><p>​<span style="text-align:justify;">Rylander Elementary student Nicole Lavrack has been selected to travel this summer to Austin and San Antonio to participate in the 2017 Lone Star Leadership Academy camp.</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><span style="text-align:justify;">She was selected based on her outstanding academic success, demonstrated leadership ability, involvement in school and community activities, as well as her successful completion of a previous Lone Star Leadership Academy camp.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;">Nicole will join a delegation of outstanding students to develop leadership skills while learning about the great state of Texas and its leaders. As a participant of the academy, she will visit significant sites in the area, learn about future career and internship opportunities and will visit with her Texas State Representative and Senator, whom are well aware of Nicole's accomplishments. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Education in Action is a non-profit organization which hosts the Lone Star Leadership Academy camp designed to empower young people to be informed and active leaders in their communities. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">For more information about the camps visit <a href="http://www.educationinaction.org/">www.educationinaction.org</a>. </p><p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/061417_Nicole%20Lavrack%20-%20smaller.jpg" alt="061417_Nicole Lavrack - smaller.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p></div>

<div class="ExternalClass5803FA6AAEE04C3F855785B51CE01A2B"><p>​<span style="text-align:justify;">Three Katy ISD teams classified in the "Top 10 Teams" during the Global Destination Imagination Tournament, which took place in Knoxville, Tennessee on May 24-28.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;">More than 1,400 teams representing 45 states and 14 countries competed in the event to showcase their innovative challenge solutions. In total, five Katy ISD teams attended the tournament, including students from Griffin Elementary, Hayes Elementary, Beckendorff Junior High and Katy High School.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">In the Improv Challenge, 3-Peat, the Katy High School "<em>Tie Di ers</em>" finished in 10<sup>th</sup> place. This placed them as the highest ranking team in the state of Texas, who was in attendance. Participating in the Scientific Challenge, Top Secret, the Hayes Elementary team "<em>It's Classified</em>" finished in third place. The "<em>Altos Kryptos</em>," from Griffin Elementary won second place in the same category. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Congratulations!</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/061217_DI%20Global%20Teams.JPG" alt="061217_DI Global Teams.JPG" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p></div>

<div class="ExternalClassC561DD21CFD245D7BA5A6ED33C85742D"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">Taylor High School student Max Wright has been nominated to play in the 2018 U.S. Army All-American Bowl presented by American Family Insurance.</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><span style="text-align:justify;">In total, 400 football players are nominated, but only 100 are selected to participate in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, the nation's premier high school sporting event, held every January.</span><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">Wright was nominated by the U.S. Army All-American Bowl Selection Committee, which consists of All American Games, its national network of coaches and scouts, as well as 247Sports. This nomination recognizes the versatility and adaptability Wright possesses both on and off the field.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">The U.S. Army All-American Bowl is a unique event designed to showcase and recognize the talents of America's youth while celebrating the team that makes a difference every day for the nation – the U.S. Army.</p><p style="text-align:center;"><img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/Max%20Wright%201%20-%20smaller.jpg" alt="Max Wright 1 - smaller.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p><p style="text-align:center;">(Left): Max Wright – Taylor High School student, Senior Class of 2018</p><p style="text-align:center;">(Right): Staff Sergeant Chance Jackowski​</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><br></p><p style="text-align:center;"><img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/Max%20Wright%202%20-%20smaller.jpg" alt="Max Wright 2 - smaller.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p><p style="text-align:center;">(Left): Coach Jay Jensen – Taylor High School, Defensive Coordinator</p><p style="text-align:center;">(Right): Max Wright – Taylor High School student, Senior Class of 2018</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><br></p><p style="text-align:center;"><img src="/PublishingImages/Lists/latestnews/AllItems/Max%20Wright%203%20-%20smaller.jpg" alt="Max Wright 3 - smaller.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p><p style="text-align:center;">(Left to Right):</p><p style="text-align:center;">Coach Trey Hermann, Head Coach for Taylor High School</p><p style="text-align:center;">Max Wright – Taylor High School student, Senior Class of 2018</p><p style="text-align:center;">Cydney Wright – mother of Max Wright</p><p style="text-align:center;">Staff Sergeant James Ross – U.S. Army</p><p style="text-align:center;">Staff Sergeant Chance Jackowski – U.S. Army</p><p style="text-align:center;">Coach Jay Jensen – Taylor High School, Defensive Coordinator</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><br></p></div>

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